FIIRO innovations: Former Ag. DG says, technologies now more visible, accessible

Stanley Ihedigbo

Former Acting Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Institute of Industrial Research (FIIRO), Dr. Chima Igwe, has commended the current management of the institute for making its technologies more visible and accessible to Nigerians and foreign investors.

According to Dr. Igwe, the present management, led by Dr. Mrs. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, has taken significant steps to promote the institute’s research and innovations, making them more accessible to the public and private sectors.

According to him, the development is expected to boost the country’s industrial growth and economic development, as more Nigerians and foreign investors can now tap into FIIRO’s innovative technologies and research findings

He explained in an interview with The Mirror that women and youths who are interested in establishing Micro-, Small, and Medium Scale industries could access the FIIRO locally developed technologies.

Igwe cautioned that neglecting the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Scale Industries (MSMEs) through locally developed technologies could hinder Nigeria’s economic progress.

He emphasized the crucial role of agencies like the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructures, and Projects Development Institute in driving this growth

He stated that FIIRO, in particular, has locally developed so many technologies that can empower Nigerians in developing Micro-, Small, and Medium Scale Industries, thereby creating employment and wealth as well as assisting the government in the achievement of the targeted $1 trn GDP by the year, 2030.

Dr. Igwe commended the National Chairman, Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN) Mr. Charles Okonji, and his members in partnering with the industry sector.

The National Chairman of CICAN, on his part, commended FIIRO for its contributions to economic development and he therefore urged them to do more.

He also tasked the government at all levels, including ministries, to provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive to reduce unemployment in the country.

“No nation becomes great without production. Europe developed with the Industrial Revolution. Unfortunately, subsequent governments in Nigeria have paid lip service to the growth industrial sector, preferring the crude oil business, whose price is not determined or controlled by the government.

“Many multi-nationals left Nigeria because of the inclement environment including the high cost of production, high exchange rate, insecurity, multiple taxation/levies, and poor infrastructure.,” he stated.